MOT tyre requirements in Great Britain
Does a TPMS warning automatically fail an MOT?
No. A pressure-loss warning does not by itself establish a TPMS malfunction. The DVSA manual distinguishes an advisory, a Minor defect for obvious underinflation and a Major defect for a malfunctioning system. Tyre tread, structural condition and fitment have separate criteria. This guide covers the Great Britain MOT scheme; it does not state the rules for Northern Ireland or another country.
Check the vehicle class first
Use section 5.2.3 of the current DVSA manual. The tread example below concerns passenger cars first used on or after 3 January 1933 with no more than eight passenger seats. Other classes, older vehicles and special applications have different criteria; a translation of this page does not change its jurisdiction.
Source: DVSA — 5.2.3: tread depth
Where the 1.6 mm rule applies
For those passenger cars, primary tread grooves must be at least 1.6 mm deep across the central three-quarters of the tread breadth and around the full circumference. Secondary grooves and shallow sipes are not assessed in the same way. A single central measurement cannot demonstrate compliance around the tyre.
Source: DVSA — 5.2.3: tread depth
TPMS: scope and warning interpretation
The TPMS inspection applies to M1 vehicles first used on or after 1 January 2012. M1 motor caravans, ambulances and hearses with a gross vehicle weight over 2,500 kg are excluded from this TPMS check.
Source: DVSA — 5.2.3: TPMS; defects (h) and (l)
A lamp can remain on after pressure loss without a system fault. If the tester cannot distinguish a malfunction from low pressure, DVSA calls for advisory information. An obviously non-working or malfunctioning TPMS is Major; an obviously underinflated tyre is Minor. Do not erase a warning to conceal a fault.
Source: DVSA — 5.2.3: TPMS; defects (h) and (l)
Examples from DVSA section 5.2.3
| Observed defect | MOT category |
|---|---|
| Tread depth outside the applicable requirement | Dangerous |
| Bulge or separation from structural failure, or exposed/damaged cords | Dangerous |
| Cut exceeding the stated criteria and reaching ply or cords | Major |
| Different tyre sizes or structures on the same axle | Major |
Source: DVSA — 5.2.3: defects (b), (c), (d), (e)
Useful checks before the appointment
Record tread measurements at several positions and inspect all accessible surfaces. Check cold pressure against the vehicle label or manual, not the sidewall maximum. Note warning behaviour and any repeated pressure loss for the technician. These observations help diagnosis; they do not certify a pass.
Source: NHTSA TireWise — Maintenance: Tire Pressure; Maintaining Proper Tire Pressure
A photograph, a homemade Grade 1–4 cracking scale or a puncture-size shortcut cannot decide structural integrity or the test outcome. Ask a qualified examiner about damage and repair. Passing an inspection does not guarantee future tyre condition; use the current manual for the exact defect and vehicle class.
Sources checked for the cited claims: 2026-09-04
Seasonal check
Winter tire rules coming up?
Check tread depth, markings and local winter requirements before the first cold spell instead of waiting for the appointment rush.